There’s nothing like gathering around a crackling fire after a day of hiking, paddling, or exploring. Campfires bring people together — for warmth, for meals, and for memories. But they’re also one of the most common sources of camping-related injuries, especially burns. Most of these injuries are preventable. In fact, the number one cause of campfire accidents? A lack of preparation.

That’s why we created this guide. Whether you’re lighting your first campfire or you’re a seasoned backcountry camper, these tips will help you keep your fire safe, your campsite secure, and your skin unburned.

Campfire safety is often overlooked in outdoor first aid preparedness, but it plays a major role in preventing serious injuries. Each summer, Canadian parks and campgrounds report dozens of fire-related incidents that could have been avoided with a little foresight. By incorporating fire safety into your camping routine — and pairing it with reliable first aid knowledge — you help protect both your group and the natural surroundings. Knowing how to manage a burn, control a stray ember, or cool a hot surface might be the difference between a cozy evening under the stars and a trip to the emergency room.

How to Build a Safe Campfire

Creating a controlled fire starts with setup. Always use a designated fire ring or a cleared patch of ground, keeping it at least ten feet away from tents, trees, or any flammable materials. Choose a flat, open space that allows for easy access and airflow without spreading sparks.

Once you’re ready to build, stack your wood safely. Begin with small kindling, adding larger pieces gradually as the fire establishes. Avoid tepee-style stacks that can tip over, and never use accelerants like lighter fluid, gasoline, or aerosol sprays. These can flare uncontrollably — especially in dry or wooded areas.

It’s also important to be ready for the unexpected. Always have tools for extinguishing nearby, such as a bucket of water, shovel, or fire extinguisher. Fires should never be left unattended — even briefly. Before going to bed or leaving the area, make sure the fire is completely out by soaking it with water, stirring the ashes, and repeating until the coals are cold.

• Use a fire ring or cleared space: Always build your campfire in a designated fire pit or on bare ground at least 10 feet away from tents, trees, or anything flammable.
• Stack your firewood safely: Avoid teepee-shaped towers that can topple. Use small kindling and gradually add larger wood to maintain control.
• Never use accelerants: Gasoline, lighter fluid, or aerosol sprays may ignite unpredictably and are extremely dangerous in a natural setting.
• Have extinguishing tools ready: Always keep a bucket of water, a shovel, or a fire extinguisher close to your fire setup.
• Never leave a fire unattended: Even a few seconds is too long. Fires can spread quickly in dry conditions.
• Fully extinguish the fire before bed: Douse it with water, stir the ashes, and repeat until it’s completely cold to the touch.

Campfire Hazards

Even a well-managed fire can present hazards if the people around it aren’t paying attention. Loose clothing, especially synthetic materials, can easily catch flame or melt. Children and pets are naturally curious and can wander too close without realizing the danger.

Flying embers are another common risk, especially if you’re overfeeding the fire or using damp wood that creates pops and sparks. Tripping hazards like logs, hot rocks, or tools lying around can also lead to injury. And be sure to keep any flammable gear — backpacks, fuel canisters, or sleeping bags — far from the fire zone.

Campfire safety is a shared responsibility. Set clear rules with your group and model safe behavior from the moment the fire is lit.

• Loose clothing catching fire – Synthetic fabrics melt easily and natural fibers ignite quickly.
• Kids or pets wandering too close – Keep a safe perimeter and explain the risks.
• Flying embers – Overfeeding your fire or using damp wood can cause sparks to fly.
• Tripping hazards – Logs, hot rocks, or unseen fire tools can cause falls or burns.
• Nearby flammables – Keep backpacks, fuel, or gear well away from the fire.

First Aid for Burns in the Wilderness

Accidents can still happen — even with the best prevention. If someone sustains a burn at camp, immediate and proper response is crucial. Start by cooling the burn with clean, cool water as soon as possible. Avoid ice, which can cause additional tissue damage.

Next, carefully remove any tight clothing or jewelry from the area before swelling begins. Gently cover the burn with a clean, non-stick dressing or bandage. Do not apply butter, oil, or ointments — and resist the urge to pop blisters.

Medical attention should be sought if the burn is large, located on sensitive areas like the hands or face, appears deep or discolored, or if the injured person shows signs of shock.

If someone gets burned:

• Cool the burn immediately with clean, Tepid (room temperature) water (avoid using ice, which can damage tissue).
• Remove tight items like rings or watches near the burn site, before swelling begins.
• Cover the area with a clean, non-stick, breathable dressing — never apply oils, butter, or ice.
• Don’t pop blisters or peel skin, as this increases infection risk and can increase recovery time.
• Get medical attention if the burn is:
  • Larger than a loonie
  • Located on the face, hands, or joints
  • Deep, discolored, or blistering

What to Do After a Campfire Burn: Next Steps and Recovery Tips

Initial treatment is just the beginning. Burn injuries must be monitored closely to prevent infection. Even a small burn can lead to complications if not properly cared for. Elevate the injured area if possible, avoid direct sunlight, and keep the dressing clean and dry.

Change the bandage regularly and watch for warning signs such as swelling, redness, pus, or fever. These could indicate an infection that requires medical care. Proper aftercare not only prevents complications but also supports faster healing and minimizes scarring — helping you get back to enjoying your time outdoors.

What to Pack: Campfire-Related First Aid Essentials

A well-stocked first aid kit is a must-have for campers, especially those spending time around a fire. Burn gel and hydrogel pads are essential for soothing skin quickly, while non-stick sterile dressings help protect the area without causing more pain. Include nitrile gloves for sanitation, tape to secure dressings, and a written emergency contact plan in case you need help.

• Burn gel and hydrogel pads
• Non-stick sterile dressings
• Nitrile gloves and bandage tape
• Emergency contact info and transport plan

Don’t Just Hope You’ll Know What to Do — Learn It

A confident first aid response can change the outcome of any emergency. Whether you’re dealing with minor blisters or serious burns, the knowledge you gain from a certified course ensures that you’ll act effectively in the moment.

First Aid 4U’s courses teach you how to manage burns, treat wounds, assess emergencies in the field, and provide safe, immediate care until help arrives. Our training is designed for real-world situations — not just classroom theory.

Take a First Aid 4U course before your next adventure and head into the outdoors with confidence.